Where the Chefs Eat

Who better to know about the best food in town than the chefs themselves?

By San Diego Magazine

Published: 2014.05.19 02:55 PM

Deborah Scott

Who better to know about the best food in town than the chefs themselves? We asked one to pick her favorite meal in San Diego, then asked the chef of that restaurant to pick her favorite meal, and so on, in this insider’s guide to where the pros go.

Deborah ScottExecutive chef and partner, Cohn Restaurant Group
“I’m a real salad lover, and Francesca Penoncelli’s lacinato kale and farro salad at BiCE is one of my favorites.”

Francesca PenoncelliChef de cuisine, BiCE
“The pizza Rubino at Caffé Calabria. I love the caramelized onion with the delicate creme fraiche, the touch of gorgonzola and the salty speck.”

GiancarloHead pizza chef and general manager, Caffé Calabria
“Everything they do at Jaynes Gastropub is good. The style and quality of service is top-notch.”

Jayne BattleOwner, Jaynes Gastropub
“I love to sneak away from Jaynes for the carnitas at Cantina Mayahuel. Be sure to ask for one of Don Lorenzo’s housemade hot sauces and proceed with caution!”

Larry AumanOwner and chef, Cantina Mayauel
“The jerk chicken at Island Spice is awesome. I get the cabbage, red beans, and rice, too.”

Susie JamesHead chef, Island Spice
“I love Royal Mandarin on Plaza Boulevard. They have the best chicken wings.”